Japanese Cultural Tips for Travelers

Greet and say “Thank You” with a slight bow

Refrain from showing body tattoos – Body art is considered disrespectful when shown in public. Many public baths / hot spring places will not allow you to enter if you have body tattoos or even just painting on your body.

While Commuting in Public Transport (Trains/Buses):

Refrain from talking on your mobile phones – Japanese treasure the quiet and peaceful environment. Hence, it would be appreciated that you talk quietly (if necessary) with your family and/or friends in the train.

Eating and drinking are not allowed in the train.

Do not use the phone speaker if you are watching a movie/video clip. Use your earphones.

Do not sit with your legs crossed. This may become an obstacle to those standing especially when it is very crowded.

Do not sit in priority seats for elderly, pregnant women or disabled. Even for the regular seats, give them up as needed.

Queue & Move In An Orderly Manner – Japanese queue in an orderly manner whenever they are waiting for buses, trains, and elevators. When the bus or train arrives, they board and alight in an orderly manner too.

Do not Litter – If there are no trash bins around, keep your trash with you till you see one.

Bring Easy-To-Remove Shoes – For places such as pubs, inns, hot springs, ryokan to name a few, you will be asked to take off your shoes. Hence, it will be good to bring easy-to-remove shoes.

Arrange Your Shoes Neatly – Whenever you are asked to take off your shoes, arrange them neatly, facing outwards.

Wear A Mask If You Are Unwell – If you catch a cold in Japan, it is appreciated if you wear a mask. This shows the respect you have for everyone around you.

Ask Before Taking Photos or Touching Any Decorative Items In The Retail Store – Out of respect, you would need to ask before taking any photographs or touching any decorative items in the retail store.

No External Food & Drinks Allowed In Restaurant – In Japan, bringing external food and drinks into a restaurant is not allowed. This includes mineral water bottle as well.

Public Baths / Hot Spring – Please shower before going into public baths like hot spring. The bathtub is for you to relax your body.